There’s so much to enjoy in Big Bear before and after the festival. Pair your Puptopia weekend with a property that’s got its own pool, then take the party to the lake—paddling, swimming and dockside naps included. Here’s how to build a stay-and-splash itinerary around July 25.
Start the weekend on nourishing note and take part in the local community Friday Farmers Market tradition. The seasonal market is held at Ski Beach Park from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. and made-to-order foods are in the mix alongside fresh produce and local makers.
For the real splash, get out on the water itself. Pleasure Point Marina rents pontoon boats, kayaks, paddleboards and an eight-person SUP—the pontoon and fishing boats give dogs the most room to stretch out. Prefer a guided ride? Leashed dogs are welcome aboard the narrated Big Bear Queen Lake Tour or the pontoon-and-paddleboard Big Bear Cruzer, both shoving off from marinas on the south shore.
Want dry land with water views? The Alpine Pedal Path traces the lake’s edge for an easy, leashed stroll with plenty of spots to wade in. Pack a towel either way—Big Bear’s alpine water runs cold even in July.
